This year's installment of the RI Vegan Restaurant (VRW) week is set for Friday, October 29 through Sunday, November 7, 2021. “The logo still says Providence, but the event is really statewide,” says Chris Belanger, creator of the popular annual celebration of vegan dining in Rhode Island.

“Vegan dining options in Rhode Island continue to expand even during the pandemic, including Pianta, offering Italian vegan in Providence, food delivery services and pop ups such as the Afro Indigenous Vegan and the all-vegan coffee and CBD cafe Blackstone Coffee & Herbs. 2021 is shaping up to be our most eclectic year yet,” says Belanger.

During its first year, the event just had storefront participants. Now mobile vendors, delivery services, fine and casual dining and pop ups add a variety of options for vegans. Cultures and cuisines represented include soul food, Jamaican, Greek, Italian, Mexican, Japanese and vegan versions of American comfort food. The new Lost Valley Pizza & Brewery at Revival has veganized NY System hot weiners.

“Our goal is to expand awareness, both for restaurateurs and diners,” shares Belanger. “VRW shows the public what is available right here in Rhode Island while also showing restaurants that there is growing demand for innovative, compassionate and healthier fare that goes beyond hummus and pasta primavera.”